Toronto Blue Jays floor Pittsburgh Pirates 8-6 – MLB Spring Training Recap
Toronto Blue Jays defeated Pittsburgh Pirates 8-6 at the McKechnie Field, Bradenton Florida on Wednesday March 7, in a competitive Grapefruit League encounter of the 2012 Major League Baseball Spring Training Session.
The Jays adopted a very aggressive strategy to pressurise their opponents during the contest. Their hitters made the most of available opportunities to post a decent total on the board. The Pirates put up a brave fight to their credit but they failed to
handle their nerves under pressure, which played a crucial role in deciding the outcome of the game.
Jeff Karstens produced a stunning performance for the Pirates as he pitched three scoreless innings to keep his side in the hunt. The Pirates’ starter pitched with great control and precision. He continued to work out even at the bullpen, showing his commitment
and dedication.
The Pirates led the score 4-0 when Karstens left for the bullpen. However, they were unable to stop the Blue Jays from scoring runs once he departed and reliever Brad Lincoln gave away four runs in the fifth inning.
"Usually, I try to work as quick as possible," Karstens said. "It was just one of those things where I was able to locate a lot better than I did in the `pen before I went out there. I was all over the place in the `pen."
Toronto’s hitter Yan Gomes displayed some high quality hitting skills as he hit a solo home run in the seventh to level the score at 4-4. Jonathan Diaz then added a two run double to help his team edge past the Pirates. Jays’ starter Kyle Drabek allowed
three runs and four hits over two innings pitched. He also walked one and struck out two to help his team take control of things.
"I thought it went good, although the numbers don't show it," Drabek said. "I've been working on mechanics a lot and location of my pitches. There were some that got away from me, but for the most part I was where I wanted to be."
The Jays have given some great results since the start of 2012 Spring Training. It will be interesting to see if they can carry their good form into the regular season.
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